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Dinner Tonight: Mix in Some Mushrooms! How They Can Help You Lose Weight...

Do you like mushrooms? I happen to love them. But wait, did you know that they can help you lose weight? Here's how.

The secret weight loss ingredient you haven't been cooking a lot of lately? Mushrooms! Here's the thing about these beauties: They not only contain "umami" (you know, the flavor dimension that some foodies claim to be ultimate in savory satisfaction), but they also are a pretty amazing stand-in for meat in everything from pasta to stir fry dishes. Yes, they're not exactly protein, but, past research indicates that mushrooms can trick you into thinking you've just had a rich, meaty meal when you've only eaten, say, a nice sauteed portobello!

Your health challenge for today: Mix in some mushrooms into your cooking! My favorite way to enjoy mushrooms is to simply saute them with a little olive oil, garlic, red wine and any herb I have on hand. Amazing side dish, or toss with pasta for a main!